Using expletives to enhance therapeutic outcomes: A case report.

Abstract

Background: Swearing deserves attention in the physical therapy setting due to its potential positive effects on pain, physical performance, and therapeutic alliance. The purpose of this case report is to describe the strategic use of swearing in the clinical setting.

Case presentation: A 44-year-old female completed an episode of physical therapy after undergoing patellofemoral arthroplasty. Swearing was formally included into the plan of care, and the patient swore out loud during the most challenging and painful interventions.

Results: The patient reported that repeating a swear word was funny, distracted the patient, and made the patient feel more confident. The patient and physical therapist self-reported a strong therapeutic alliance.

Conclusion: There is evidence repeating a swear word out loud can strengthen the therapeutic alliance, improve physical performance, and decrease pain. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of a patient swearing during an episode of physical therapy care.